Former Iraqi national team goalkeeper, Ibrahim Salem, expressed his great confidence in the ability of the Lions of Mesopotamia's goalkeepers to perform exceptionally in the intercontinental playoff match qualifying for the 2026 World Cup finals, affirming that this position does not pose a concern for the team despite the current challenges.

The Iraqi national team awaits a match against the winner of the Bolivia vs. Suriname encounter, which will be held on March 27th. Iraq will play the decisive match on April 1st in a crucial showdown determining the qualification ticket to the World Cup.

In his statements, Salem emphasized the importance of the players' full focus on the playoff match, warning against getting distracted by side talks, such as the possibility of qualifying as a substitute for other teams, considering that such matters could distract the players' minds.

He explained that the primary goal for the national team is clear, which is to achieve victory in the playoff match, pointing out that discussing other scenarios does not serve the team at this critical stage.

He added that the team will enter the match with high readiness, especially since most players continue to participate with their clubs, enhancing their technical and physical condition, expressing his confidence in their ability to achieve the desired result.

Salem also called for the necessity of relieving pressure from the players and the technical staff, affirming that fan support at this stage is the most important factor, instead of imposing additional pressures that could affect their performance on the field.

Regarding the goalkeeper position, Salem confirmed that the team possesses a distinguished group of goalkeepers capable of taking responsibility, noting that having names like Jalal Hassan, Ahmed Basil, and Fahd Talib provides the team with great stability in this position.

He explained that any goalkeeper who gets the chance to participate will be able to deliver the required level, given the experience the trio possesses, in addition to their readiness to compete in such decisive matches.

Regarding the absence of goalkeeper Jalal Hassan due to injury, Salem pointed out that its impact will be limited given the presence of outstanding alternatives, affirming that Ahmed Basil and Fahd Talib have enough experience to compensate for this absence, following their participation in important matches during the qualifiers.

He also noted the presence of young goalkeeper Kamil Al-Saadi on the roster, praising the levels he presents with his team Arbil, as he is considered one of the rising talents that could provide a significant future addition to the Iraqi national team.

Salem concluded his remarks by affirming that the goalkeeper position in the Iraqi national team remains one of the most stable positions, expressing his optimism about the team's ability to overcome this stage and achieve the dream of qualifying for the World Cup.